What it means
A device about the size of a phone that delivers rapid-acting insulin through a small tube (cannula) under the skin. It gives a small, steady basal dose all day and night, and the person adds a bolus for meals and high readings. Many now link to a continuous glucose monitor and adjust the dose on their own. Because it uses only rapid-acting insulin, any stop in delivery can quickly lead to high blood glucose and diabetic ketoacidosisdy-uh-BET-ik kee-toh-as-ih-DOH-sisA state of high blood glucose, ketones in the blood and acidic blood, caused by a lack of insulin.ket/o ketonesacid/o acid-osis abnormal conditionFull entry .
For the nurse
Follow facility policy for clients who manage their own pump. Teach the client to change the insertion site every 2 to 3 days, check blood glucose often, and check the site and tubing when glucose is high.
At a glance
| Also written | insulin pumps |
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Related terms
insulin
A hormone made by the pancreas that lets the body's cells take in glucose, also made as a medicine.
diabetic ketoacidosis
A state of high blood glucose, ketones in the blood and acidic blood, caused by a lack of insulin.